Incredible Things To Do In The Golden Isles, Georgia’s Coastal Gem
The Golden Isles of Georgia offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and coastal charm that will leave you wanting more.
This stunning stretch of barrier islands along Georgia’s coast includes St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Jekyll Island, and Little St. Simons Island, each with its own unique character and attractions.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historical sites, or simply a relaxing beach getaway, the Golden Isles deliver unforgettable experiences that appeal to every type of traveler.
1. Explore Jekyll Island’s Historic District
Stepping back in time has never been easier than wandering through this incredible collection of restored cottages and buildings. The Jekyll Island Club Historic District is located at 100 James Road, Jekyll Island, GA 31527, where America’s wealthiest families once vacationed in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Families like the Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, and Morgans built stunning “cottages” (which were actually mansions) that you can tour today.
I recommend taking a guided tram tour to learn fascinating stories about the millionaires who shaped American industry while relaxing on this coastal paradise. The architecture ranges from Queen Anne to Mediterranean Revival styles, giving you a diverse visual feast. You can also explore the grounds on your own, taking photos of the beautiful moss-draped oak trees.
The district includes the Jekyll Island Museum, which provides context about the island’s role in American history. Don’t miss the Faith Chapel, a beautiful non-denominational chapel built in 1904. This area truly captures the elegance of the Gilded Age in a coastal setting you won’t find anywhere else.
2. Relax on Driftwood Beach
Nature has created an otherworldly landscape that photographers and beachcombers absolutely love. You’ll find Driftwood Beach on the northern end of Jekyll Island, accessible via North Beachview Drive, Jekyll Island, GA 31527. Erosion has toppled ancient oak and pine trees onto the sand, creating a hauntingly beautiful scene that looks like something from a fantasy movie.
The bleached white driftwood creates incredible photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light is soft and golden. I always bring my camera here because every angle offers a new composition. Kids love climbing on the massive tree trunks and exploring the natural sculptures.
This beach isn’t ideal for swimming due to the debris, but it’s perfect for contemplative walks and nature observation. The contrast between the weathered wood, sandy beach, and ocean waves creates a peaceful atmosphere. Visit during low tide to see even more exposed driftwood and explore tidal pools.
Remember to wear sturdy shoes since the terrain can be uneven with all the fallen trees scattered across the sand.
3. Climb St. Simons Lighthouse
Standing tall since 1872, this working lighthouse offers breathtaking views that make the 129-step climb totally worth it. The St. Simons Lighthouse is located at 101 12th Street, St. Simons Island, GA 31522, right in the heart of the island’s historic district. Once you reach the top, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the island, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding marshlands.
The lighthouse keeper’s dwelling now houses a museum that tells the story of the lighthouse and the families who lived there. I find the exhibits fascinating, especially the stories about the keepers who maintained the light before automation. The original Fresnel lens is still in use, making this an active aid to navigation.
Plan to spend about an hour exploring both the lighthouse and museum to get the full experience. The surrounding area includes a beautiful park perfect for picnics and a fishing pier where locals cast their lines. Early morning visits offer cooler temperatures for the climb and fewer crowds.
The lighthouse is painted white with black trim, making it a recognizable landmark you can spot from various points around the island.
4. Bike the Jekyll Island Trail System
Pedaling through this island paradise gives you an eco-friendly way to see everything while getting some exercise. Jekyll Island offers over 20 miles of paved bike trails that wind through diverse ecosystems, with bike rentals available at various locations including the Jekyll Island Miniature Golf at 100 James Road, Jekyll Island, GA 31527. The flat terrain makes cycling easy for all skill levels and ages.
The trails take you past historic sites, through maritime forests, alongside marshes, and right up to beautiful beaches. I love how the routes connect all the major attractions, so you can park your car once and explore everything on two wheels. You’ll spot wildlife including deer, birds, and maybe even an alligator in the marshy areas.
Bike rentals are affordable and widely available, with options for standard bikes, tandems, and even surreys for families. The trails are well-marked and maintained, making navigation simple even for first-time visitors. Bring water and sunscreen since some stretches offer little shade.
Cycling here allows you to cover more ground than walking while still enjoying the fresh ocean breeze and natural beauty at a leisurely pace.
5. Visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center
Watching rehabilitated sea turtles recover and prepare for their return to the ocean is genuinely heartwarming. The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is located at 214 Stable Road, Jekyll Island, GA 31527, inside a historic building that once served as the Jekyll Island Club’s power plant. This working veterinary hospital and educational facility cares for sick and injured sea turtles found along Georgia’s coast.
You can observe turtles in various stages of rehabilitation through viewing windows and learn about different species through interactive exhibits. I always feel inspired by the dedicated staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to save these ancient mariners. The center also rehabilitates other marine animals and provides educational programs about ocean conservation.
Admission fees directly support the center’s rescue and rehabilitation efforts, making your visit meaningful beyond just entertainment. Guided tours provide deeper insights into sea turtle biology and the threats they face. The gift shop offers sea turtle-themed souvenirs with proceeds benefiting the center.
Kids especially love seeing the turtles up close and learning about conservation efforts. Check the website for feeding times to see the turtles at their most active.
6. Kayak Through the Salt Marshes
Gliding silently through the golden marshes gives you an intimate perspective on the coastal ecosystem that you simply can’t get from land. Several outfitters on St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island offer kayak rentals and guided tours, with many launching from locations near the St. Simons Island Pier Village area at Mallery Street, St. Simons Island, GA 31522. The calm waters make this activity suitable for beginners and families.
Paddling through the winding creeks, you’ll encounter herons, egrets, dolphins, and countless other marsh residents. I find the peace and quiet of the marshes incredibly relaxing, with only the sound of my paddle and bird calls breaking the silence. The spartina grass creates a golden landscape that changes color with the seasons.
Guided tours teach you about the marsh ecology and how these wetlands protect the coastline from storms while providing nursery habitat for fish and shellfish. Sunrise and sunset paddles offer the most spectacular lighting and wildlife activity. Bring binoculars for better wildlife viewing and wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet.
The marshes are truly the lifeblood of the Golden Isles, filtering water and supporting an incredible diversity of life.
7. Discover Fort Frederica National Monument
Walking among these ruins transports you to the 1700s when British colonists defended Georgia against Spanish invasion. Fort Frederica National Monument is located at 6515 Frederica Road, St. Simons Island, GA 31522, preserving the archaeological remains of a town and fort built by James Oglethorpe in 1736. The site played a crucial role in establishing British control over Georgia and protecting the southern colonies.
The visitor center provides excellent context through exhibits and a film about the fort’s history. I recommend starting there before exploring the tabby ruins (a concrete-like material made from oyster shells, sand, and lime). Interpretive signs throughout the site help you imagine what the bustling military town looked like in its heyday.
A walking trail takes you through the fortifications and town site, with some foundations and walls still standing. The adjacent Town Creek area offers additional ruins and a peaceful waterfront setting. Rangers occasionally give talks and demonstrations about colonial life and military tactics.
The Battle of Bloody Marsh, which secured British control of Georgia, was fought nearby in 1742. This site offers a fascinating glimpse into colonial America and Georgia’s strategic importance during the territorial conflicts between European powers.
8. Play Golf on World-Class Courses
Teeing off with ocean views and coastal breezes makes golfing in the Golden Isles an unforgettable experience. The area boasts numerous championship courses, including the famous Sea Island Golf Club at 100 Retreat Avenue, St. Simons Island, GA 31522, which has hosted PGA Tour events. These courses combine challenging play with stunning natural beauty.
The well-maintained fairways wind through maritime forests, alongside marshes, and sometimes right along the oceanfront. I’ve played several courses here and always appreciate how the designers incorporated the natural landscape into the layout. Even if you’re not a serious golfer, the scenery alone makes a round worthwhile.
Many courses offer lessons and clinics for players looking to improve their game in a resort setting. The mild climate allows for year-round golf, though spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures. Public courses provide excellent value while private club courses offer luxury amenities and impeccable conditions.
After your round, many clubhouses feature restaurants with views of the 18th green. Whether you’re a scratch golfer or just enjoy hitting balls outdoors, the Golden Isles deliver exceptional golfing experiences that combine sport with natural beauty.
9. Go Dolphin Watching
Seeing these intelligent marine mammals leap and play in their natural habitat never gets old, no matter how many times you experience it. Multiple tour operators throughout the Golden Isles offer dolphin watching cruises, with many departing from the St. Simons Island Pier area and Jekyll Island Marina at 1 Pier Road, Jekyll Island, GA 31527. The calm coastal waters provide ideal conditions for spotting Atlantic bottlenose dolphins year-round.
The best tours are led by knowledgeable guides who share information about dolphin behavior, biology, and the local ecosystem. I’ve been amazed watching dolphins surf in boat wakes and hunt cooperatively in the tidal creeks. The playful animals often approach boats, giving you close-up views and fantastic photo opportunities.
Sunset cruises combine dolphin watching with spectacular coastal scenery as the sun dips below the horizon. Bring binoculars for spotting dolphins at a distance and a camera with a good zoom lens. Children especially love these tours, which create lasting memories and foster appreciation for marine life.
Some tours also explore the marshes and barrier islands, providing a comprehensive coastal experience. The dolphin population here is healthy and active, making sightings highly likely on most trips.
10. Enjoy Fresh Seafood at Local Restaurants
Nothing beats the taste of shrimp, crab, and fish caught just hours before landing on your plate. The Golden Isles feature dozens of excellent seafood restaurants, from casual dockside eateries to upscale dining establishments concentrated around St. Simons Island Village at Mallery Street, St. Simons Island, GA 31522. Local favorites serve Georgia white shrimp, blue crabs, and fresh-caught fish prepared in Southern coastal style.
I always order the local shrimp when visiting because the flavor is noticeably sweeter and more delicate than frozen imports. Many restaurants feature outdoor seating with marsh or ocean views, enhancing the dining experience. The casual atmosphere at most places means you can come straight from the beach.
Traditional Lowcountry dishes like shrimp and grits, crab cakes, and fried seafood platters showcase the region’s culinary heritage. Some restaurants let you watch shrimp boats unload their catch at nearby docks. Oyster bars serve fresh-shucked oysters from local waters during cooler months.
Don’t skip dessert—Southern favorites like key lime pie and pecan pie are done exceptionally well here. The combination of fresh ingredients, skilled preparation, and waterfront ambiance makes dining in the Golden Isles a highlight of any visit.
11. Explore the Jekyll Island Mosaic Museum
Art lovers will be amazed by this unique collection of intricate mosaic artworks created by a single dedicated artist. The Jekyll Island Mosaic Museum is located at 100 James Road, Jekyll Island, GA 31527, showcasing the work of Portuguese artist Jorge Pinto. His detailed mosaics depict historical scenes, wildlife, and cultural themes using thousands of tiny tiles.
Each piece requires incredible patience and skill, with some taking months to complete. I find myself drawn back to study the details, discovering new elements each time I look. The museum displays both large wall installations and smaller framed pieces, all demonstrating masterful technique.
The collection includes works depicting Jekyll Island’s history, Georgia’s natural environment, and universal themes of human experience. Pinto’s style combines traditional mosaic techniques with contemporary artistic vision. The museum offers a quiet, climate-controlled space perfect for escaping the heat while appreciating fine art.
Admission is affordable, making this an accessible cultural experience for families. The gift shop sells prints and smaller mosaic pieces if you want to take home a memory. This hidden gem provides a surprising artistic complement to the island’s natural and historical attractions, showing that the Golden Isles offer cultural depth alongside outdoor adventures.
12. Fish from Piers and Charters
Casting a line into these productive coastal waters can yield impressive catches and relaxing hours by the water. The St. Simons Island Pier at Mallery Street, St. Simons Island, GA 31522, extends into the ocean and provides free public fishing access with beautiful views. You’ll find anglers catching whiting, flounder, redfish, and seasonal species depending on the time of year.
No fishing license is required when fishing from public piers, making this an easy activity to try spontaneously. I enjoy the social atmosphere at the pier, where experienced locals share tips with newcomers. Sunrise and sunset bring the most active feeding times and the best light for photos.
Charter fishing boats offer half-day and full-day trips into deeper offshore waters where larger species like king mackerel, cobia, and even sharks swim. Inshore charters target redfish, trout, and flounder in the marshes and creeks. Most charters provide all equipment and expertise, perfect for beginners or those without gear.
Bring sunscreen, snacks, and a cooler if you plan to keep your catch. Local restaurants will sometimes cook your fresh-caught fish for a small fee. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just want to try something new, fishing opportunities abound throughout the Golden Isles.
13. Attend the Jekyll Island Shrimp and Grits Festival
Food festivals don’t get much better than this celebration of coastal Georgia’s signature dish. The Jekyll Island Shrimp and Grits Festival takes place annually in September at locations throughout the island, centered around the Jekyll Island Convention Center at 75 North Beachview Drive, Jekyll Island, GA 31527. Professional chefs and amateur cooks compete to create the most delicious versions of this Lowcountry classic.
You can sample numerous creative variations of shrimp and grits, from traditional preparations to innovative fusion interpretations. I love trying all the different styles and voting for my favorites. The festival also features live music, arts and crafts vendors, and cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs.
Family-friendly activities keep kids entertained while adults enjoy the culinary offerings and local craft beverages. The event celebrates both the region’s shrimping heritage and its evolving food culture. Tickets are reasonably priced, especially considering the amount of food you can sample.
The festival atmosphere is relaxed and fun, with locals and visitors mingling under the coastal Georgia sunshine. Plan to arrive hungry and pace yourself to try as many varieties as possible. This annual tradition showcases why the Golden Isles are considered a premier culinary destination along the Georgia coast.
14. Relax on East Beach
Sometimes you just need a classic beach day with soft sand, gentle waves, and plenty of sunshine. East Beach on St. Simons Island, located along East Beach Causeway at East Beach Drive, St. Simons Island, GA 31522, offers a family-friendly beach experience with amenities that make spending the day comfortable. The beach features a large parking area, picnic pavilions, and restroom facilities.
The gradual slope into the water makes this beach particularly safe for children learning to swim in the ocean. I appreciate the lifeguards on duty during summer months, providing extra peace of mind for families. The beach is wide and long, giving everyone plenty of space even on busy weekends.
Bring beach chairs, umbrellas, and coolers to set up your perfect beach camp for the day. The sand is clean and well-maintained, ideal for building sandcastles and playing beach games. Nearby shops and restaurants make it easy to grab lunch without leaving the area.
Shelling is productive here, especially after storms when new treasures wash ashore. The beach faces east, making it perfect for sunrise walks and morning swims. This is the quintessential beach experience that brings families back to the Golden Isles year after year for simple, timeless coastal fun.
15. Visit the Maritime Center at the Historic Coast Guard Station
Learning about coastal rescue operations and maritime history adds depth to your understanding of life on these barrier islands. The Maritime Center is housed in the Historic Coast Guard Station at 4201 First Street, St. Simons Island, GA 31522, a building that served from 1936 to 2015 as an active station. The restored facility now operates as a museum dedicated to preserving the area’s maritime heritage.
Exhibits showcase the brave men and women who risked their lives to rescue mariners in distress along Georgia’s coast. I find the rescue equipment and historical photographs particularly compelling, showing the dangerous conditions these heroes faced. Interactive displays help visitors understand navigation, weather patterns, and the challenges of coastal waters.
The building itself is architecturally significant, representing the classic Coast Guard station design of the 1930s. Guided tours provide insights into daily life at the station and memorable rescue operations. The center also documents the area’s commercial fishing industry, recreational boating history, and environmental conservation efforts.
Located near the beach, you can combine a museum visit with beach time. The Maritime Center preserves an important piece of Golden Isles history while honoring those who served to keep coastal waters safe for everyone.
